Man Utd player-coach Giggs favours winter break

A winter break is utilised across several European leagues and many critics of English football suggest a similar schedule would benefit both the Premier League and the national team, a theory that Giggs subscribes to.

"I think I would like a winter break, it doesn't really need to be over Christmas," Giggs told MUTV. "I think it could just be in January, maybe when you get a couple of weeks off so you can get to go away, maybe get some sun, and then have a week's training before getting back into the games. I don't think it is a lot to ask for.

"But TV is huge over the festive period and obviously all of the stadiums are full. But it does have an effect on the national team. If you have a winter break then it definitely helps you. And going into the Champions League as well, you have had a little week's rest and it definitely helps you. I have benefitted from that in October and November, getting a few days off in the international breaks. It does help you and you do feel refreshed."